Kali Uchis breaks into the limelight with her latest album

By Megan Mosquera

In her new album “Isolation,” Kali Uchis explores themes of love with unique sound and Spanish lyrics. Her teaser tracks provided reasonable anticipation for this album since her final product definitely surpassed my expectations.

Kali Uchis is a Colombian singer/songwriter who grew up in Virginia. She is a promising creator with a soulful and sweet voice that artists like Snoop dogg, Tame Impala, ASAP Rocky and Tyler the Creator have come to appreciate and incorporate in their sound. Uchis designed a memorable, recognizable sound that resonates within her music and appearance.

From wearing bandanas in her hair to matching sets, her influence is very clear. Kali Uchis has a presentation that incorporates a lot of 90’s drama queen flare but also syncs it with the look of a 70’s pop star.  This is also true of her sound, which carries graceful melodies and her delicate voice fulfill her songs in a way that makes them feel smooth and complete.

Her representation of Latin-American influences within pop, brings forth colorful compositions. “Isolation” follows her psychedelic funk theme with an arrangement of guitar and synth that sounds beautiful and remains conforming to her established aesthetic.  

In addition to gorgeous production,the lyrics capture a more profound theme. In her previous released now found on “Isolation,” “After the Storm”  provides a harmonious song full of empowerment. Featured artists include Tyler the Creator and Bootsy Collins, who both help in providing a retro ambience within the track.

It is a song that encourages self growth and finding fulfillment with one’s own strength. It involves understanding that everyone is going to struggle but primary concern should always remain themselves and overcoming. The chorus fluently address this with gentle allure explaining that “The sun’ll come out/ Nothing good ever comes easy/I know times are rough/But winners don’t quit.”

Other songs which are included all have a vintage feel as well—with jazz, hip hop and r&b heavily arranged throughout. Every single song feels like it belongs in a greatest hits collection. Each song is crafted perfectly so that modern styles reproduce old ones and are used to create the variety and creativity the album has. Uchis takes from the past in order to make something completely original.

It is inspiring to see a hispanic artist in the public eye, and Kali Uchis carries a prominence that should watched out for.  The dynamic unity within “Isolation” is found universally in all of her music. A casual yet passionate album that reminds us to stay positive because “After the storm’s/ When the flowers bloom.”  Kali Uchis makes it easy to be excited for her next project and her ascent into the limelight.

Photo retrieved by Flickr.